When is the best time to retire and how?

Deciding when to retire is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make. The right time to retire varies for everyone, influenced by personal circumstances, financial readiness, and lifestyle goals. Here, we’ll explore key considerations for determining the best time to retire and how to prepare for a comfortable and fulfilling retirement.

Determining the Ideal Retirement Age

The concept of an “ideal retirement age” often evolves as people approach retirement. Interestingly, younger individuals tend to favour an earlier retirement, while older adults are more inclined to extend their working years. According to research by Vanguard Australia, this shift in perspective is consistent across different wealth and gender groups.

Two primary factors drive this change:

Lifestyle Adjustments

As you age, your perspective on work may shift. For many, the primary motivation for work transitions from earning a living to achieving a balanced lifestyle. Post-55, with major financial milestones like paying off a mortgage or children leaving home, work can become a fulfilling part of life rather than a necessity. Retirees often express greater satisfaction when they “retire to” activities they enjoy rather than “retiring from” something they don’t.

Retirement decisions should also factor in physical and mental health. Consider your ability to enjoy retirement activities and potential healthcare needs. Good health allows you to fully enjoy your retirement years, whether it’s travelling, pursuing hobbies, or spending time with family.

Reflect on your personal goals. Whether it’s travelling, pursuing hobbies, or spending more time with family, ensure your retirement plan aligns with these aspirations. Clear goals help shape your financial planning and ensure you make the most of your retirement.

Financial Readiness

The closer you get to retirement, the clearer your financial picture becomes. A 20-year-old might aim to retire by 60, but this is often more of a hopeful guess than a well-informed plan. By the time you reach 55, you have a much better understanding of your financial situation and whether you can afford to retire in the next few years. As of 2024, the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) recommends a superannuation balance of approximately $595,000 for singles and $690,000 for couples to maintain a comfortable retirement.

In addition to your superannuation balance, you should also consider the following:

• Income Sources: Evaluate additional income streams, such as investments, rental income, or part-time work. Having multiple income streams can provide financial security and flexibility. For example, rental income from an investment property can cover ongoing expenses, while dividends from investments can supplement your superannuation. Part-time work can also be a great way to stay engaged and earn extra income without the full commitment of a traditional job.
• Debt Levels: Aim to minimise debt before retiring. Being debt-free reduces financial stress and increases disposable income. For instance, paying off your mortgage means you no longer have to allocate a portion of your income to monthly repayments, freeing up funds for other expenses or savings. This financial freedom allows you to enjoy your retirement without the burden of outstanding loans.
• Budgeting for Retirement: Estimate annual expenses, including healthcare, leisure, and daily living costs. Ensure your income comfortably covers these expenses. Creating a detailed budget helps you understand how much money you will need to maintain your desired lifestyle. For example, factor in regular costs like groceries and utilities, as well as healthcare expenses that may increase with age. Planning for leisure activities, such as travel or hobbies, ensures you can enjoy your retirement without financial worry.
• Age and Superannuation Access: Understanding when you can access your superannuation and government benefits is important:
  1. Preservation Age: The preservation age, currently between 55 and 60, is when you can start accessing your superannuation if you are retired.
  2. Age Pension Eligibility: The Age Pension offers financial support for eligible retirees. The qualifying age is 67 years or older. To qualify, you also need to meet residence rules, an income test, and an assets test.

Preparing Financially for Retirement

1. Plan Early: Start planning well in advance. Early planning allows for maximising superannuation contributions, reducing debt, building a diversified investment portfolio, and ensuring your will is up to date and establishing powers of attorney.
2. Seek Professional Advice: Engage with a financial adviser to develop a personalised retirement plan. We provide tailored advice on superannuation strategies, tax planning, investment options, and more, guiding you towards achieving your ideal retirement lifestyle.
3. Review and Adjust Your Superannuation:
   • Contribution Strategies: Use concessional (before-tax) and non-concessional (after-tax) contributions to boost your superannuation. In the years leading up to retirement, it’s beneficial to contribute as much as possible to your superannuation. This period often coincides with increased financial flexibility, such as reduced expenses from raising children or paying off a mortgage​​.
   • Investment Options: Choose investment options within your superannuation fund that match your risk tolerance and retirement timeline. As retirement approaches, adjust your investment strategy to ensure that your money will be available when needed. This may involve balancing growth assets to support long-term needs and more conservative investments for immediate expenses​​.
4. Consider Income Streams: Many retirees choose to convert their superannuation into an income stream rather than withdrawing a lump sum. This can be advantageous because, generally speaking, investment earnings on income streams are not taxed for those over 60. However, it’s important to manage withdrawals wisely to ensure your funds last throughout retirement​​.
5. Plan for Health Care Costs: Health care is a significant expense in retirement. Ensure you have adequate health insurance and consider setting aside funds for potential medical expenses.
6. Stay Informed and Flexible: Retirement planning is not a one-time event. Regularly review your financial situation with a financial adviser and adjust your plan in response to changes in the market, legislation, and personal circumstances.

Deciding when to retire is a deeply personal choice that depends on your financial readiness and lifestyle goals. By carefully planning and preparing, you can ensure that your retirement years are comfortable, fulfilling, and secure. Remember, the best time to start planning for retirement is now, regardless of your age. If you need personalised advice, please feel free to contact us.